Autism Month Reflections

Autism month is a time of opportunity to spread awareness and acceptance, but it is also a very exhausting time for autistic people.

As autism month is coming to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what a month it has been. And although there has been a ton of positivity, many other autistic people including myself have noted what a taxing month it can be.

Advocacy burnout is unfortunately a common experience

Despite it being our month, it is also the time when the most misinformation and ableism is spread. It is not uncommon for the puzzle piece, wear it blue, or eugenic phrases such as “war on autism” or “they need a cure” to be thrown around. It is unfortunately also common for awareness events to not include any autistic voices.

It is also an exceptionally taxing month, as we are expected to engage in more emotional labour to explain and educate. And whilst it is amazing for people to seek out our voices to learn, we should not be expected to advocate and educate at all times.

Regardless of these issues, I am grateful to this month as an opportunity for awareness and acceptance to be raised, and to those who have taken the time to seek out our voices to learn about our experiences.